Short Medieval Crusader Habit with Hood and Cross in Fustian

Short Medieval Crusader Habit with Hood and Cross in Fustian

Historical Heritage of the Crusades

During the High Middle Ages, particularly throughout the Crusades to the Holy Land, members of the military orders wore cloaks and habits over their armour or as part of their daily attire. Although this garment is frequently referred to in popular culture as a Templar habit, from a strictly historical perspective, the dark background featuring a white cross pattee corresponds much more accurately to the vestments of the Knights Hospitaller (the Order of St John, later the Knights of Malta). The Knights Templar famously wore a red cross on a white (for knights) or black/brown (for sergeants) background. The pointed hood with a long tail, known as a liripipe, was a highly fashionable and practical feature across Europe during the 13th and 14th centuries.

Material Composition and Benefits

This habit is tailored entirely from fustian (100% cotton), also known in some contexts as cotton velveteen. This is a durable, densely woven cotton fabric that has been brushed on the face side to create a soft nap. Consequently, it feels very pleasant to the touch and visually resembles suede or fine velvet. The primary advantage of this fabric is its excellent breathability—typical of natural fibres—combined with a heavy weight that effectively blocks the wind. Fustian will keep you reliably warm during cool evenings at historical reenactments, absorbs moisture well, and is comfortable to wear either directly over the skin or layered atop a linen undertunic.

Technical Specifications

Care Instructions

To ensure the cotton fustian maintains its beautiful texture and shape, proper care is required. We recommend machine washing the habit inside out on a gentle cycle at a maximum temperature of 30 °C (86 °F). Always use mild detergents without bleaching agents to protect both the dark fabric dye and the bright white cross applique. Do not tumble dry the garment after washing, as this could cause the cotton to shrink. The best method is to let the habit air dry naturally on a hanger. If ironing is necessary, iron strictly on the reverse (inside out) using a medium heat setting suitable for cotton. When wearing the garment near open campfires, please exercise caution, as natural cotton materials are flammable.

Recommended Accessories

To achieve the ultimate historical look, we highly recommend belting this habit with a robust leather belt featuring a period-correct brass buckle. It also pairs perfectly with simple medieval trousers and tall leather boots, all of which you can find in our wide selection. Please note that the trousers shown in the photograph are not included with this product.

This costume "Templars' mantle - short" can be made in various colors according to these sample cards. Please note the requested color(s) into your order, in the field for your comment. Please specify always (1) the number of the sample card, (2) letter of the color, and (3) description of the colour (Example: 04-F- blue). If you choose a fabric with different composition, the price may change. Possible price change will be consulted with you before processing the order.

This costume "Templars' mantle - short" is available in standard sizes or can be made exactly to your measure at no additional charge. In the latter case please fill in this measurement chart after finishing your order.

Information about cleaning and care.